Simpson v. State

A jury convicted John Larue Simpson of murder and assessed his punishment at life in prison and a $10,000 fine. On appeal, Simpson argues that the trial court erred by failing to sua sponte instruct the jury on sudden passion. We find no error and affirm.

Background

Shazaib "Shawn" Nizamani and Javed Nizamani worked at Barrett Grocery Store. On October 8, 2015, Simpson and *710other men were loitering outside the store, drinking, and being noisy. Shawn and Javed had previously encountered Simpson, and they decided he was not allowed in the store.

Shawn told the group of loitering men that they…